A Russian diplomat refuses to leave the country where Russia planned to build a new embassy in Canberra after Australia canceled the project after passing a law to clear the space for “national security”.
The man, whose identity has not been disclosed, has been living on the land previously assigned to the Russian mission for several days, ordered food at home and was guarded by the Australian Federal Police, which in principle cannot remove him because he benefits from diplomatic immunity , said the Australian newspaper.
“A man sitting on a turf in Canberra in the cold is not a threat to our national security,” Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said wryly at a news conference today.
Last week, the Australian parliament passed a law aimed at blocking the construction of the new Russian embassy in the Australian capital, located just 100 meters from the parliament building.
The measure, which immediately ended land tenure, was taken on the recommendation of the National Security Commission, according to which the new Russian diplomatic delegation would pose a risk “in terms of political interference” in the activities of the Australian parliament.
On the site, rented since 2008 and with a building permit since 2011, there is only one small building, the construction of which seems to have been stopped some time ago.
Meanwhile, Russia, which has committed to completing the works within three years, is keeping its diplomats in Australia in the old embassy, about two miles from parliament.
According to public broadcaster ABC, Russia appears to be appealing to challenge the Australian government’s decision in court.
Australian Home Secretary Clare O’Neil today defended the government’s move, insisting that the new Russian embassy would be built “two steps away” from parliament.
Moscow last week condemned the “hostile” attitude of Australian lawmakers, calling it “Russophobia” and saying it would take it into account on issues requiring “reciprocity” in the future.
Australia has repeatedly condemned Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and imposed sanctions on more than 1,000 Russian leaders, businessmen and organizations, while sending humanitarian and military aid to Kiev.
Source: DN
